Swimming South Africa (SSA) has confirmed its team for the upcoming 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, scheduled from July 11 to August 3. The federation also announced a new strategic apparel partnership with global sports brand FILA.
The women’s roster features University of Virginia standout Aimee Canny, alongside Kaylene Corbett and national record holders Erin Gallagher and Rebecca Meder.
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On the men’s side, 21-year-old Pieter Coetze is set to headline the squad. Coetze earned South Africa’s sole medal at the 2024 World Aquatics Championships in Doha, securing bronze in the men’s 200m backstroke. Notably, Olympic champion Chad le Clos will not compete, opting to focus on rehabilitation for a back injury. Le Clos previously indicated a target return to competitive racing at the World Aquatics World Swimming Cup in October. Former University of Georgia NCAA champion Matt Sates and breaststroke specialist Michael Houlie are also named to the men’s team.
At the 2023 World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, South Africa finished 11th in the swimming medal standings with two medals. This included a gold in the women’s 200m breaststroke and a silver in the 100m breaststroke by now-retired Tatjana Smith (previously Schoenmaker).
SSA Partners with FILA for World Championships Apparel
Swimming South Africa recently revealed a new apparel partnership with FILA. FILA will serve as the official apparel sponsor for all aquatic disciplines Swimming, Water Polo, Artistic Swimming, Open Water Swimming, and Diving – at the forthcoming World Aquatics Championships.
The partnership was formally announced at a media briefing in Rosebank, Johannesburg. Mr. Alan Fritz, President of Swimming South Africa, expressed appreciation for FILA’s commitment.
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“This partnership with FILA aligns with our strategic objectives as we prepare our national teams for the World Championships and look toward the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games,” stated Mr. Fritz. “We anticipate this collaboration will extend beyond apparel, encompassing broader athlete support and high-performance gear innovation.”
Mr. Fritz reaffirmed SSA’s position as a leading sporting federation in South Africa regarding international podium finishes. “Our athletes have consistently delivered world-class performances. This partnership will enhance our teams’ visibility and brand presence globally, contributing to sustained excellence,” he added.
Ms. Smit, representing FILA, highlighted the shared values underpinning the collaboration. “Winning encompasses carrying forward a legacy, living with passion, and blending sport with style,” Ms. Smit commented. “FILA’s heritage inspires not just champions, but a way of life. We are thrilled to partner with Swimming South Africa on their journey of excellence.”
The partnership underscores SSA’s commitment to fostering high-performance environments and expanding its global footprint through alliances with brands that share its values of performance, integrity, and innovation.
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